On Tuesday night, the Montreal Canadiens played their last game before the holiday break. This is a break they desperately need with a virus spreading through the locker room. Before they could rest they were in Boston to face the Bruins, and the result was a 6-2 win.
Here is what caught my eye.
Jacob Fowler is pushing the envelope.
Another win, and this one against a bitter rival in their own barn. Fowler is cool as a cucumber, and showing no signs that he is not ready for the NHL gig.
Everyone hopes that Dobes continues to have a strong rookie season, and that Sam Montembeault finds his way. But I’m not sure how you send Fowler back to Laval if he continues to deliver.
Texier is the next forward to leave a game injured.
You have to feel bad for him. He’s been really finding his game, and hopefully that is not sidetracked by an extended absence.
It’s almost hard to believe the amount of adversity the team has faced this season, and they continue to add up wins.
The top players had a successful night.
The Suzuki line has not looked like themselves of late. Suzuki looks tired, and may still be dealing with an injury. Slafkovsky was bigger on that line than we realized.
Bolduc cleaned up a big rebound on a Suzuki attempt, and then both Caufield and Suzuki scored on the power play. Good to see them head into the break with a little wind in their sails.
Both of those power play goals came as a result of a shot from Dobson that made its way to the net. He continues to quietly add to his point total while facing top players night after night, and with minimal power play time.
The Habs were able to tie the game because of a great steal and then a beautiful breakaway move from Demidov. Maybe they should try that guy in a shootout sometime.
The Canadiens head into the Christmas break with a record of 20-12-5. That should be enough to have us all celebrating, but when you consider all the team has played through, it’s very impressive.
Hab At Her 